The United Nations has called for "an independent and transparent investigation" into clashes in Gaza that have killed at least 16 people.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was speaking after reports that 1,400 people had also been injured in the violence between Palestinians and Israeli troops near the border.

Spokesman Farhan Haq said: "He also appeals to those concerned to refrain from any act that could lead to further casualties and in particular any measures that could place civilians in harm's way."

The UN Security Council did not decide on any action after its emergency meeting on Friday, however.

Tens of thousands of Gazans - including women and children - marched on Friday at multiple sites in the territory.

Israel's military targeted three Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip with tank fire and an air strike after what it said was an attempted shooting attack against soldiers along the border that caused no injuries.

Image:Palestinians shout during clashes with Israeli troops

Seven people were killed by Israeli soldiers at the border fence and one, a farmer, by Israeli tank fire, according to Gaza health officials.